Indicator 1. Analyze the influence of individuals and groups on shaping public policy

Objective d. Explain how the media, interest groups, and public opinion affected elected officials and government policy prior to the Civil War

Brief Constructed Response (BCR) Item

Direct the students to select an issue from early U.S. history, such as those listed in the lesson seed above. Then, have the students address the following brief constructed response prompt: “How did outside influences such as the media, interest groups, or public opinion affect the actions of public officials and bring about change as it relates to this issue? Be sure to provide details and examples in your response.”